Derby Brewing crowdfunding to create craft brand

Derby Brewing Co has turned to crowdfunding as it looks to launch and new craft beer arm, called Derby Brewing Crafted.

With revenue of more than £3m in 2016, it is selling 3.86% of its equity for £500,000. It will use the money to launch its craft range in keg and 330ml bottles, develop licensed venues it already owns and open a new venue.

The company also aims to launch an additional premium bottled ale, with more to follow, export premium ales and the Crafted range, and increase capacity at the brewery, with the addition of a bar and shop.

Founder Trevor Harris and his team want to take revenues to nearly £4.5m by the end of 2018 with the aim of establishing Derby Brewing Co in the craft beer market and taking it worldwide.

Prior to the Crowdcube launch, there has been more than £300,000 pledged from interested parties, with close to £100,000 invested following the pre-sale.

Derby Brewing Co managing director, Paul Harris, said: “Since we first started telling our customers about the crowdfunding campaign the support and interest shown in becoming a shareholder has been overwhelming…

“We want our shares to be accessible for everyone so have made the decision to create shares in multiples of £10 and from £10 upwards. So for just £10 you could be part of Derby Brewing Co and the exciting development plans we have.

“In addition to the shareholder benefits available, when you choose to invest £100 or more, we are offering a range of rewards as a thank you for people’s support, from discounts in our venues, getting batches of our beers delivered direct to your door, even brewing your own beer and much more.”

Founder, Trevor Harris, added: “To see such initial local interest before the opportunity is released nationwide has been fantastic. We want as many local people to get involved as possible and look forward continuing to create something for people of Derby to be proud of.”